The HAWK Air Defense Missile System

The HAWK missile system was the first mobile air-defense missile system and was used by the US Army around the world. It was designed to counteract the threat posed by advanced Soviet-built aircraft and was credited with shooting down more than 100 aircraft during its combat career. The book provides a comprehensive study of the system, including research from HAWK technical and field manuals, interviews with HAWK veterans, and personal experiences with HAWK missile units.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 48 pages
Publication date: 18 August 2022
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

The HAWK missile system, a legendary US Army asset, stands as the world's first mobile air defense system. Its history spans several decades, from its inception in the 1950s to its deployment across the globe. Initially designed to counter the advanced Soviet-built aircraft of the era, the HAWK system became operational in 1959 and played a pivotal role in various conflicts.

During its peak, HAWK units were actively serving on the frontlines in the Far East, Panama, Europe, and the Middle East. Their effectiveness was evident during the Cuban Missile Crisis, Vietnam War, and Persian Gulf War. Even when in the hands of other nations, HAWK demonstrated its prowess in combat during the Arab-Israeli Wars, Iran-Iraq War, Chadian-Libyan War, and the Iraqi invasion of Kuwait. With a remarkable track record of shooting down over 100 aircraft during its combat career, the HAWK system earned immense respect for its lethality.

Recognizing the threat posed by HAWK, the Soviet Union developed electronic jammers, anti-radiation missiles, and other countermeasures to degrade its effectiveness. However, the US retired its HAWK systems soon after the Cold War ended in 1991, as air defense priorities shifted towards ballistic missile defense. Nevertheless, a modernized version of the HAWK system remains in service in many nations today.

This comprehensive book, packed with archival photos and original artwork, offers a detailed account of the HAWK system's history. Drawing from HAWK technical and field manuals, interviews with HAWK veterans, and personal experiences of the authors, it provides a comprehensive study of this remarkable air missile system. The book delves into the development, deployment, and operational history of HAWK, highlighting its technological advancements and the impact it had on global security.

Whether you are a military enthusiast, history buff, or interested in defense technology, this book is a must-read for anyone seeking to understand the significance of the HAWK missile system in the annals of military history.

Weight: 168g
Dimension: 184 x 247 x 6 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781472852212